Presented annually at our Green Pavlova conference, the Parks Awards recognise New Zealand's outstanding open spaces, places, and people within the sector. 

The 2024 Parks Awards are open for nominations now. Please see the bottom of the page for terms and conditions.

Healthy Park award Celebrating parks that actively contribute to community well-being. Applicants highlight initiatives promoting physical, mental, and social health, ensuring accessibility, and fostering connections with mana whenua. Join us in honouring excellence. APPLICATIONS OPEN

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Active Park / Sportsground award Celebrating exceptional adventure parks and sports grounds that foster an active lifestyle. Applicants showcase exciting features, community engagement, mana whenua connection, and evidence of positive community impact. APPLICATIONS OPEN

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Playspace of the Year (within $500,000) award Celebrating exceptional playspaces designed for recreation and play within a $500,000 budget. Applicants showcase intentional development, innovative design, mana whenua acknowledgment, accessibility, and inclusivity. Join us in honouring dynamic and enjoyable environments! APPLICATIONS OPEN

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Playspace of the Year (over $500,000) award Celebrating outstanding playspaces designed for recreation and play with a budget exceeding $500,000. Applicants showcase intentional development, innovative design, mana whenua acknowledgment, accessibility, and inclusivity. Join us in honouring dynamic and enjoyable environments! APPLICATIONS OPEN

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Parks Person of the Year award Celebrate individuals advancing public parks with exceptional management, sustainability, and innovation. This award spotlights valued team members committed to excellence, contributing significantly to park enhancement and development. Nominate now and join us in honouring dedication and innovation! APPLICATIONS OPEN

All applications are to supply:

• A one minute video – to give a high-level overview of the project/person.
• Three photos – to showcase the project/person. 
• A written submission that provides data / evidence to show how the applicant meets each of the eight judging criteria, maximum of 400 words per criteria.

Applications/nominations must respond to each of the judging criteria specified for each award. 

Photos and videos may be used to showcase the applicants and winners at the Awards Presentation Dinner.

We encourage all finalists to attend the awards dinner, as category winners won't be notified prior to the Awards ceremony. All nominations are to be made electronically via our website.

Applications close: 4:00 pm, Thursday 28 March 2024.

Who can apply?

• Any organisation or individual who is involved in parks, play, and open spaces.
• An organisation can apply for recognition themselves, or be nominated by another party.
• The Parks Person of the Year will be awarded to an individual.
• Applicants do not need to be members of Recreation Aotearoa - however, will be given automatic virtual membership.